The risk associated with pressure system failures in falling hydraulic elevators and the requirement of safety was addressed. The acceleration due to pressure system failures of direct-acting hydraulic elevators ranging from pinhole leaks, larger leaks, to total blowout with a total loss of fluid and pressure might cause virtual free fall. LifeJacket could be used to provide protection of the entire system by retrofitting it to the direct-acting hydraulic elevators. The LifeJacket prevents plunger damage and damage to the elevator and injury to the passengers.